We like to think that SFist interviews with locals are like catching little glimpses in to parts of the city you don’t know as well. For today’s interview Casey Jex Smith was kind enough to take time from preparing his MFA show to answer our questions. The result is a nice view of a the Mission and of life as an art student in the city.

Thematically, Casey’s art tends to explore the sublime and mystical, but even helicopters and neckties find a place in the worlds he creates. We especially love Casey’s meticulously rendered clouds. Clouds! They’re amazingly detailed pen and ink numbers. Make sure to check out the video clip Casey recommends—it’s the funniest thing we’ve ever seen on television.

The San Francisco Art Institute MFA final show opens today and runs through next week. Casey’s art alone is worth the trek to the Marina, but you’ll also fine a number of standouts in the 2005 crop of grads.

What's the best thing about being and Artist in SF?
The art community is small and friendly.

What's the worst thing?
Being able to afford only 6 more months of living here.

San Francisco Art Institute MFA Exhibition. Herbst Pavilion, Fort Mason (Marina Blvd. & Buchanan St.) 5/21/05-5/28/05, 12:00 - 6:00pm daily